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Posted May 22, 2014 10:55 pm - Updated January 22, 2016 02:30 pm

Humane Society: Know how to prevent dog bites

May 18-24 is American Veterinary Medical Association’s “Dog Bite Prevention Week.” Annually, nearly 5 million people in the U.S. are bitten by dogs — 800,000 receive medical care. Children are far more likely to be injured than adults and account for one-half of those requiring medical attention. And, a dog known to the child is commonly involved. So how do you avoid getting bit by a dog?

Start by being polite and respecting the dog’s personal space. Never approach an unfamiliar dog, especially one who’s tied up or confined behind a fence or in a car. Don’t pet a dog — even your own — without letting him see and sniff you first.

Don’t disturb a dog while she’s sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy or caring for puppies. Be cautious around strange dogs. Always assume that a dog who doesn’t know you may see you as an intruder or a threat. A dog will try to warn you that he is afraid or uncomfortable and might feel the need to bite. He does this through body language so it’s important to pay attention and know what to look for. Here are some warning signals:

• A tensed body.

• Stiff tail.

• Pulled back head and/or ears.

• Furrowed brow.

• Eyes rolled so the whites are visible.

• Yawning.

• Flicking tongue.

• Intense stare.

• Backing away.

If you suspect that a dog might bite, never turn your back on him and run away. A dog’s natural instinct will be to chase and catch you.

What should you do to protect yourself if you think a dog might attack you? Follow these steps:

• Once the dog loses interest in you, slowly back away until he is out of sight.

• If the dog does attack, “feed” him your jacket, purse, bicycle or anything that you can put between yourself and the dog.

• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless. Try not to scream or roll around.

What should you do if you are attacked or bitten by a dog? Try not to panic. Then …

• Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water.

• Contact your physician for additional care and advice.

• Report the bite to Savannah-Chatham Animal Control. Tell the animal control official everything you know about the dog, including his owner’s name and the address where he lives. If the dog is a stray, tell the animal control official what the dog looks like, where you saw him, whether you’ve seen him before, and in which direction he was going when you last saw him.

Help prevent dog bites by being informed, aware and alert.

Lynn Gensamer is the executive director of Humane Society for Greater Savannah. She can be reached by phone at 912-354-9515, ext. 105, or by email at lgensamer@humanesocietysav.org.